You might be skinny but far from healthy

Would you like to rethink the scale?

Many of us tie our self-worth to a number on a scale, which can lead to frustration and self-criticism. But image is just one of the issues with weight. The bigger concern is how weight impacts our health and the interesting thing I didn’t know until studying our body is that, while weight can provide some health insights, it’s the type of fat that really matters.

Let’s talk about your waist circumference…

You have likely heard of “apple” and “pear” body shapes with apples carrying the weight around the middle, while pears carry weight around the hips and thighs. This simple distinction can be more meaningful for health than weight alone.

Research shows that carrying extra fat around the abdomen (apple-shaped) is linked to higher risks for conditions like sleep apnea, insulin resistance or diabetes, and heart-related issues. Importantly, it’s not about the fat you can pinch under your skin, but the fat that surrounds your organs inside the abdomen called visceral fat. This type of fat releases inflammatory compounds that influence your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure.

Even people who appear thin can have a higher proportion of visceral fat, a phenomenon sometimes called “skinny fat.” This underscores that where fat is stored is even more important than the number on the scale.

Tips to support a healthier waistline and overall well-being:

• Add fiber to your meals. Foods like Brussels sprouts, flax or chia seeds, avocado, and berries can help you feel fuller and support healthy digestion.

• Include healthy protein. Protein promotes satiety, supports muscle health, and helps your body use energy efficiently.

• Be mindful of added sugars. Reducing processed sweetened foods and sugary drinks can help regulate energy and appetite.

• Move your body regularly. Aerobic exercise, strength training, walking, and even taking the stairs all contribute to overall health.

• Manage stress. High stress can affect hormones that influence appetite and fat storage. Mindful practices like meditation or deep breathing can help.

• Prioritize sleep. Quality sleep is foundational for health, mood, and energy. Not getting enough sleep often increases your appetite the next day.

Changing habits and working toward a healthy body composition can feel overwhelming. At JOYVIAL, our executive health coaches help you break these goals into manageable steps, making the process supportive and sustainable. Schedule a free discovery session by clicking the 'Contact' button or emailing info@joyvial.com.

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